Newman boys basketball secures first state title, defeats McDonnell 66-54

MADISON, Wis. (WSAW) - For the first time in program history, Newman boy’s basketball hoists a Gold Ball: Winning the Division 5 state title with a 66-54 victory over McDonnell.

Seven seniors filled the Cardinals roster, five of them rounding the starting lineup.

“It’s always been a dream of theirs to play at the state tournament,” says Jeff Waldvogel, Head Coach. “And I’m excited that I was able to be the coach of the team that came down here and played at the state tournament.”

Two eight player football state titles preceded this dream. But this moment with this particular group on the court hits different.

“It’s a different band of brothers,” says Conner Krach, Senior Guard. “Because Mason and Isaac don’t play football. I didn’t get that experience with them. It means the most because It’s a completely different feeling.”

Conner Krach finishes with a team-high 21 points, perfect timing to deliver on the biggest stage.

“Night in, night out, anyone is capable of doing it,” says Prey. “Today, Conner had probably the biggest game of his life on the biggest stage.”

Prey was held scoreless for nearly the entire first half, until he found his stride and finished with 18 points.

”If we lost today, no one would really realize we made it to state. To be in the record book, and to be a D5 state champ is just an unreal feeling,” says Prey. “Hopefully the younger kids will be able to look up to use and I guess, try to model their game after us and hopefully bring home another gold ball.”

Newman’s path to their first WIAA title came after a 26-4 regular season record and 14-2 conference record. The Cardinals were led by first year head coach Jeff Waldvogel.

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